Is Casiola contractually obligated to maintain, repair, update, or upgrade the computer systems used by its franchisees?
Casiola Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
e future. (Franchise Agreement, Article 9.A.).
Computer System
You must use the computer systems and Bookings and Management System that we designate. You are required to maintain and operate the following computer equipment and systems: one notebook computer to be used from your administrative office that possesses broadband internet access, and one smart phone with cellular broadband wireless internet access. The cost of the computer system that you are required to purchase ranges from $500 to $1,500. Currently, the designated property management system (PMS) that you must license and use is Track from Travelnet Solutions, and as may be otherwise designated by us in the Manuals. You are responsible for the maintenance and repair of all computer equipment and computer systems that we designate and require. Estimated costs for the maintenance, repair and update of the designated computer systems ranges from $100 to $2,000 per year. There are no contractual obligations imposed on us to maintain, repair, update, or upgrade your computer systems. You are required to provide us with independent access to all of the information and data that is transacted, collected, and stored by the Franchised Business on the
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 25–30)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to Casiola's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document, Casiola is not contractually obligated to maintain, repair, update, or upgrade the computer systems franchisees use. The franchisee is responsible for these tasks.
The FDD specifies that franchisees must use designated computer systems and a Bookings and Management System. This includes maintaining and operating a notebook computer with broadband internet access and a smartphone with cellular broadband wireless internet access. The initial cost for the required computer system ranges from $500 to $1,500.
The designated property management system (PMS) that franchisees must license and use is Track from Travelnet Solutions, or another system designated by Casiola in the Manuals. Franchisees bear the responsibility for the maintenance and repair of all designated computer equipment and systems. The estimated annual costs for maintaining, repairing, and updating these systems range from $100 to $2,000. Franchisees must also provide Casiola with independent access to all data transacted, collected, and stored on these systems.